While Kipyego is favored to repeat as champion in the individual race, the Red Raiders should vie for the team title as well.

College Cross Country

 What: Big 12 Championships

 When: 10 a.m. (men's race), 11 a.m. (women's race) today

 Where: Texas Tech Rawls Golf Course

 Admission: free

"That would be great," said Kipyego, the defending NCAA cross country champion. "We have a chance, and it all depends on how we come out and run. We all have to run our best."

The Red Raiders likely will have to outrun Colorado if they hope to claim their first cross country championship. The Buffaloes are the defending champions in the women's division and have won 10 of the 11 Big 12 Championships.

But if Colorado is the favorite, then Tech could be considered the Buffs' stiffest challenge. The Red Raiders are ranked higher (14th) than Colorado (15th) in the national polls, but the Buffs are ranked higher in the regional poll.

"I guess it all depends on who you ask," Tech coach Jon Murray said. "In my eyes, Colorado is the favorite until someone knocks them off. It should be a great team battle."

Kipyego is looking forward to running at home and in front of the home crowd. Last season, she won four national championships, one in cross country, two in indoor and one in outdoor.

"A lot of people have told me that wish they could see me run, so I want to do my best," Kipyego said. "I'm so happy to be able to run at home. I'm really looking forward to it."

In the men's race, Colorado also is the favorite to win. The Buffaloes have won every Big 12 Cross Country championship. Last year's individual champion, Colby Wissel of Kansas, will be in the field today.

The Tech men don't have the depth it takes to make a push at the team title, but Murray said they hope to finish in the top half of the conference.